The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the two weeks deadline for linking SIM cards to National Identity Number (NIN) till February 2021.
InsodeOjodu had earlier reported that the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has given telecommunications operators in the country two weeks to block SIM Cards that are not registered with the National Identity Numbers, NIN.
This was contained in a statement released on Tuesday, December 15 by the NCC Director of Public Affairs of the NCC, Dr Ikechukwu Adinde, stressing that any telecom operators that failed to comply with the directive risked outright withdrawal of its licence or heavy penalty.
But, the Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu on Wednesday during plenary moved a motion of urgent public importance to extend those deadline.
Elumelu in his motion explained that the House agrees with the policy of linking SIM cards to NIN, he explained that the policy is consistent with the position of the House.
He disclosed that the House even made recommendations to the NCC recently regarding the policy.
“As laudable as the policy is, Nigerians have not been properly sensitized. In this yuletide season, it could lead to stampede and exploitation.”
Opposing the amendment to extend the registration by 8weeks, Uzoma Abonta stated that 1year would be appropriate for the process.
However, the amendment for a one-year extension was rejected by the House.